Carletto's World Cup gamble or just craziness - Neymar in, Joao Pedro out?!

Neymar is heading back to the FIFA World Cup. Joao Pedro is not - and that decision has already become one of the biggest talking points surrounding Brazil's final squad announcement.

Carlo Ancelotti confirmed his 26-man roster on Monday night and immediately sparked controversy after leaving out Chelsea forward Joao Pedro despite the best campaign of his career.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a breakout first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 20 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions and establishing himself as one of the Premier League's most dangerous attacking players.

His omission becomes even more surprising considering several other notable absentees, including Richarlison, Thiago Silva, Savinho and Estevao.

Yet Ancelotti ultimately preferred experience, explosiveness and versatility in attack, selecting Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Gabriel Martinelli, Neymar, Endrick and others ahead of the Chelsea striker.

And while Joao Pedro's absence caused a shock in Brazil, Neymar's inclusion instantly stole the spotlight.

The Santos forward has barely played international football in recent years due to injury problems, but Ancelotti made it clear that Brazil never stopped monitoring him.

"We spent the entire year analysing Neymar," the Italian explained. "We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition."

The message surrounding Joao Pedro, meanwhile, carried a noticeably apologetic tone.

"We were sad for Joao Pedro, because for the season he had in Europe, he probably deserved to be on this list," Ancelotti admitted. "Unfortunately, we chose other players."

To his credit, the Blues' forward responded with composure rather than frustration. In a message posted on Instagram, the Chelsea forward admitted the disappointment while insisting he would continue supporting the national team.

"I tried to give my best at all times. Unfortunately, it wasn't possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country at a World Cup," he wrote. "From now on, I'll be just another fan cheering for Brazil to bring home the sixth title."

Another painful omission arrived late in the process for veteran defender Thiago Silva. The 41-year-old had returned to European football with Porto, hoping to force his way back into the squad, but even that proved insufficient.

Instead, Ancelotti appears ready to build Brazil around attacking firepower and Neymar's final dance on the biggest stage, even if questions remain about the balance in midfield. The Selecao look loaded in forward areas, but noticeably thinner through the centre of the pitch, with veterans like Casemiro and Fabinho expected to carry much of the responsibility.